It all started with hard yards, rugby and mates….  Now, 30 years on, Kodesign Building Services has a reputation for high quality dairy sheds, farm projects, new homes, renovations and bachs throughout Taranaki

The Beginning:

Back in the day, Rocky Hawke was a keen young builder in the Manawatu.  With a ton of ambition and an eye for adventure, he took off for the Pacific Islands to work on huge construction and civil projects.

He learned hard lessons in hard environments, working under all conditions and keeping to tight budgets - expertise which now underpins Kodesign’s approach to all its projects.

But soon the lure of home drew him back to Palmie (and the local rugby club….)

The All Black connection:

Meanwhile, All Black great Gary Knight was at the height of his playing career, relying on the Manawatu rugby lads to look after his farm while he was away.  One thing led to another and Gary asked his mate Rocky to build a new dairy shed for him.

With characteristic thoroughness and attention to detail Rocky travelled the dairy farms of the central North Island seeking out the best design ideas.

Once Gary’s shed was up, his neighbour had a look, was impressed and wanted one too.  It snowballed from there.

Over the next few years Rocky built successful businesses in Palmerston North and Whanganui, building dairy sheds, houses and motels for individual clients and corporates.

The Naki:

Next came the move to New Plymouth in 1997.  Again word of mouth drove the dairy shed business ahead.  Over 130 of Rocky’s sheds went up on farms all over Taranaki, including seven projects for PKW, Fonterra’s largest local supplier.

But it wasn’t all about farming.  New homes, renovations and bachs have always been a large part of the business.

The future:

With over 400 projects under their belt Kodesign is a big player in the industry.

But for Rocky and Cheryl keeping the personal touch of a family owned business is a top priority which is why Rockys son Ben Hawke is now running the business with Rhys Telford.  They are a perfect fit as they have both been working within the business for 10 years and ready to hit the ground running in their new roles.

Ben completed his building apprenticeship and has been working alongside his dad for the last 10 years.

Rhys is a qualified builder and has been working in Kodesign for 6 years.

So what next for Kodesign? We are keeping focused on more of the same ' Friendly and tailored service from a highly regarded building business that our clients would happily recommend to their friends'